How Long to Grill Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin: A Comprehensive Guide

Bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin is a delectable dish that combines the savory flavors of pork and bacon, making it a popular choice for grilling enthusiasts. This guide will delve into the intricacies of grilling bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin, providing detailed instructions and insights to ensure a perfectly cooked and flavorful dish.

Grilling Time and Temperature

The grilling time for bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin depends on the thickness of the tenderloin and the desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, follow these recommendations:

• Medium-rare: 20-25 minutes, internal temperature of 140-145°F (60-63°C)
• Medium: 25-30 minutes, internal temperature of 145-150°F (63-66°C)
• Medium-well: 30-35 minutes, internal temperature of 150-155°F (66-68°C)

Grilling Instructions

To achieve perfectly grilled bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin, follow these steps:

1. Prepare the Pork Tenderloin: Remove the pork tenderloin from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps ensure even cooking.
2. Season the Pork Tenderloin: Generously season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper, or your preferred seasonings.
3. Wrap the Pork Tenderloin with Bacon: Lay out the bacon slices side by side, slightly overlapping them. Place the seasoned pork tenderloin in the center of the bacon slices and wrap the bacon around the pork, securing it with toothpicks or skewers.
4. Preheat the Grill: Prepare your grill for indirect heat, maintaining a temperature between 300-325°F (149-163°C).
5. Grill the Pork Tenderloin: Place the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin on the grill over indirect heat. Cook for the recommended time, turning the pork every 4-5 minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
6. Check the Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork tenderloin. Remove it from the grill when it reaches the desired doneness.
7. Rest the Pork Tenderloin: Let the pork tenderloin rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.

Tips for Grilling Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for a good-quality pork tenderloin and thick-cut bacon for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Avoid overcrowding the grill, as this can prevent the pork tenderloin from cooking evenly.
• Monitor the Grill Temperature: Keep a close eye on the grill temperature to ensure it stays within the recommended range.
• Avoid Flare-Ups: The bacon fat may cause flare-ups, so be prepared to move the pork tenderloin away from the flames if necessary.
• Use Indirect Heat: Indirect heat helps cook the pork tenderloin evenly without burning the bacon.

Grilling bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin is a straightforward process that yields a delicious and impressive dish. By following the guidelines and tips outlined in this guide, you can achieve perfectly cooked pork tenderloin that is juicy, flavorful, and sure to impress your family and friends.